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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

3 days ago

SAINT LUCIA'S VOICE RETURNS TO GLOBAL LABOUR STAGE IN GENEVA Castries, June 8, 2026 - Saint Lucia has reaffirmed its commitment to social justice, decent work and inclusive development at the ongoing 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) taking place in Geneva, Switzerland, from June 1-12, 2026.Leading Saint Lucia's tripartite delegation, Minister for Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Co-operatives and Consumer Affairs, Hon. Emma Hippolyte, on June 4, 2026 addressed delegates from around the world, marking the first time in decades that Saint Lucia has taken the floor at the conference.The Saint Lucian delegation reflects the International Labour Organization's unique tripartite structure, bringing together representatives of government, employers and workers. Accompanying Minister Hippolyte are Permanent Secretary in the Department of Labour, Co-operatives and Consumer Affairs, Shelia Imbert, Director of the Division of Gender Affairs, Janey Joseph, President of the Saint Lucia Employers' Federation, Callistus Gill, and President of the Saint Lucia Trade Union Federation, Julian Monrose.This year's conference focus on three thematic areas namely Social Dialogue and Tripartisim, the Transformative Agenda for Gender Equity at Work and Decent Work in the Platform Econmy. Saint Lucia's participation at the Conference signals the country's growing leadership in advancing workers' rights, social protection and equitable economic development, while ensuring that the voices of government, employers and workers continue to shape the future of work.Minister Hippolyte's address to the Conference highlighted a series of transformative reforms undertaken by the Government of Saint Lucia to strengthen workers' rights, enhance social protection, and foster a more equitable and supportive working environment. -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E:al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcShelia Imbert (Mrs.)Permanent Secretary Department of Labour, Co-operatives and Consumer Affairs Tel:468 3183Email: pssecretary.labour@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

6 days ago

NATIONAL DAY OF CARING TO CELEBRATED WITH ACTS OF COMPASSION ACROSS SAINT LUCIA Castries, June 5, 2026 - Saint Lucia today, June 5, 2026 is observing National Day of Caring with a series of activities aimed at promoting compassion, strengthening community bonds, and recognizing the contributions of some of the nation's most vulnerable and valued citizens.Observed under the theme "Empowering Communities through Health, Care and Compassion," the Day highlights the importance of kindness, inclusion, and collective responsibility in building healthier and more resilient communities.In a message marking the occasion, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons, Karen Dupre, emphasized that caring is more than a simple act of kindness, but is a reflection of society's shared commitment to supporting those in need and ensuring that no one feels forgotten or alone.As part of the observance, government representatives will visit elderly care homes across the island, accompanied by primary school students who will engage residents through reading, singing, games, and other interactive activities. The initiative fostered meaningful intergenerational connections while expressing gratitude to older persons for their invaluable contributions to Saint Lucia's development.Schools across the island are also hosting special assemblies focused on teaching students the values of compassion, care, and respect for older persons. Hampers will be distributed to elderly citizens as a gesture of appreciation and recognition for their lifelong service to society.The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs has extended sincere appreciation to caregivers, social workers, volunteers, community leaders, families, and citizens whose daily acts of kindness continue to make a positive difference across the nation.As Saint Lucia commemorates National Day of Caring, citizens are being encouraged to embrace a culture of empathy, inclusion, and solidarity, recognizing that through caring for one another, stronger and more compassionate communities can be built.Globally, National Day of Caring will be commemorated on Sunday, June 7, 2026. -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E:al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

1 week ago

MINISTER EMMA HIPPOLYTE ELECTED TO EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF OAS INTER-AMERICAN COMMISSION OF WOMEN Castries, June 3, 2026 – Saint Lucia has secured a historic second consecutive term on the Executive Committee of the Inter-American Commission of Women (CIM/OAS), following the election of Minister for Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Co-operatives and Consumer Affairs Hon. Emma Hippolyte during the Commission's 40th Assembly of Delegates, held in Washington D.C., USA, from May 27 to 29, 2026. Minister Hippolyte was elected alongside representatives from Guyana, Jamaica, Guatemala and Peru to serve on the Executive Committee, which provides leadership and strategic direction for the Commission between meetings of the Assembly of Delegates. Uruguay was elected President, while Grenada, Canada and Paraguay were elected Vice Presidents.The election marks a significant achievement for Saint Lucia, making it the first time the country has secured consecutive terms on the Executive Committee. During the previous term, former Minister for Gender Relations, Hon. Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, served as Vice President of the Commission. Minister Hippolyte succeeded Dr. Albert-Poyotte as Saint Lucia's representative in 2025 and has now been elected to continue the country's leadership role within the hemisphere's principal forum for women's rights and gender equality.The outcome also reflects growing Caribbean representation within the Commission's leadership. While Saint Lucia and Antigua and Barbuda were the only Caribbean countries represented on the Executive Committee during the previous term, this year's elections saw Saint Lucia joined by Guyana, Jamaica and Grenada, marking one of the strongest Caribbean presences on the Executive Committee in recent years.The election further underscores Saint Lucia's growing influence in advancing gender equality and women's empowerment across the Americas.During the Assembly, Minister Hippolyte participated in high-level discussions on women's financial inclusion, highlighting several initiatives undertaken by the Government of Saint Lucia to strengthen women's economic participation and reduce vulnerability.“Because of deliberate strides by the Government of Saint Lucia to put people first, the most vulnerable are feeling heard and a part of the development conversation. Women form a large percentage of this vulnerable group,” the Minister told delegates.Among the initiatives highlighted were the Government's MSME loan-grant facility, the Youth Economy Agency, digital inclusion programmes, improved access to credit and ongoing labour and social protection reforms.“Not having land entitlement is no longer a barrier for access to credit. Loans are more accessible and more women are benefiting from these initiatives,” Minister Hippolyte noted.The Minister also underscored the importance of continued regional cooperation in areas such as financial literacy, gender-responsive financing and policies that support women's economic advancement.The Inter-American Commission of Women is the principal forum of the Organization of American States dedicated to promoting women's rights and gender equality throughout the hemisphere.Minister Hippolyte's election to the Executive Committee places Saint Lucia at the center of regional decision-making on issues affecting women and girls and reinforces the country's commitment to inclusive development and gender-responsive public policy. -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E:al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

1 week ago

HUMANITARIAN EYEWEAR DONATION TO BENEFIT VISUALLY IMPAIRED SAINT LUCIANSCastries, June 1 , 2026 - The Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons has received a humanitarian donation of nearly 4,000 pairs of eyewear through a collaborative initiative involving Lions Clubs International in Martinique, the Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association and the Consulate General of Saint Lucia in Martinique.The donation, which comprises recycled pairs of eyewear, particularly frames, along with other support supplies, is expected to assist vulnerable and visually impaired persons across Saint Lucia by improving access to essential vision support. The initiative was coordinated through the efforts of Consulate General of Saint Lucia in Martinique Allison Joseph and represents the fourth consecutive year of collaboration between the Saint Lucia Consulate in Martinique and Lions Clubs in the French territory.Speaking during the handover ceremony, Consul General Joseph praised the continued partnership and emphasized the importance of regional solidarity and community outreach.“This initiative reflects the quiet but important work being done to improve the lives and livelihoods of Saint Lucians. It also demonstrates how recycling and community support can come together to positively impact vulnerable persons,” Joseph stated.She explained that the initiative originated through environmental and recycling programmes involving schoolchildren in Rivière-Salée, Martinique, where used eyeglass frames were collected and repurposed for humanitarian assistance.Permanent Secretary in the Department of Equity, Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel, described the donation as a meaningful act of compassion that will significantly impact the lives of many Saint Lucians.“What may appear to be a simple donation is in fact something very significant because it helps people see better and live better lives. We deeply appreciate this continued spirit of generosity toward the people of Saint Lucia,” Dr. Hippolyte Emmanuel stated.She also commended the Lions Clubs for involving young people in the initiative and teaching values of compassion, environmental responsibility and service from an early age.Executive Director of the Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association, Anthony Avril, welcomed the donation from the four Lions Clubs in Martinique, while emphasizing the ongoing importance of accessible eye care services.“While the donated frames help reduce costs to clients, there are still expenses associated with examinations and prescription lenses. However, initiatives like this make a meaningful difference for many persons of limited means,” Avril explained.He also praised the environmental aspect of the initiative, noting that reusable eyewear helps reduce waste while benefiting vulnerable individuals.Meanwhile, Vice President of the Lions Club of Rivière-Salée, Pierre Eric Gaillard, highlighted the longstanding humanitarian mission of Lions Clubs International and its global commitment to vision care.“Lions Clubs International has long embraced the mission of becoming ‘knights of the blind in the fight against darkness.’ In Martinique, we have been collecting eyewear for many years through partnerships with schools, businesses and optical networks, all in the spirit of solidarity and service,” Gaillard stated.Officials say the donated eyewear will be distributed in collaboration with the Saint Lucia Blind Welfare Association to persons in need across the island.The Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons has extended sincere gratitude to the Lions Clubs of Martinique, the Saint Lucia Consulate in Martinique and all supporting partners for their continued commitment to humanitarian service, environmental stewardship and improving the lives of vulnerable persons throughout Saint Lucia. -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E: al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

2 weeks ago

GOVERNMENT MOVES FORWARD WITH $2.5M CATALYST PROJECT AS NATIONAL CONSULTATIONS GET UNDERWAYCastries, May 29, 2026 - Mere weeks after Equity Minister Hon. Emma Hippolyte announced Government’s innovative Catalyst Project during her 2026/2027 Budget presentation, national consultations on the major youth crime and violence reduction initiative have officially gotten underway.The Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons, on May 27, 2026, commenced a two-day stakeholder consultative process, aimed at shaping the implementation of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB)-supported programme, which forms part of the Government’s broader social intervention strategy to address crime, violence, and vulnerability among young people.During her Budget Debate contribution, Minister Hippolyte described the US$2.5 million Catalyst Project as a critical investment in prevention, empowerment, and social transformation, emphasizing that crime must be addressed not only through enforcement but also through stronger social protection systems, family support, and youth development initiatives.“The Government recognizes that sustainable crime reduction requires more than policing alone. We must invest in our people, strengthen our families, and create meaningful opportunities for our young people to thrive,” Minister Hippolyte stated.The project is expected to focus on youth reintegration, psychosocial support services, family-strengthening interventions, after-school and community programs, and targeted assistance for vulnerable and at-risk youth.Addressing stakeholders on day one of the consultation, Permanent Secretary in the Department of Equity, Dr. Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel, said the activity was bringing together representatives from government agencies, educators, social workers, civil society organizations, youth workers, and community stakeholders to help guide the national implementation process and ensure that interventions are practical, coordinated, and responsive to community realities.“This consultation is about bringing all key stakeholders to the table so that together we can design interventions that are inclusive, effective, and capable of making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people and families,” Dr. Hippolyte Emmanuel explained.Director of Social Transformation Tanzia Toussaint noted that the initiative represents a people-centered approach to tackling some of the root causes of crime and antisocial behavior by strengthening families, expanding opportunities for young people, and building safer, more resilient communities.“We seek to build stronger systems of support around young people and families while creating pathways for empowerment, inclusion, and positive community engagement,” Toussaint statedThe consultations also form part of the Government's continued efforts to modernize and strengthen Saint Lucia’s social protection framework while creating more integrated systems of support for vulnerable individuals and families. -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E:al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

2 weeks ago

SAINT LUCIA’S NATIONAL TRIPARTITE ADVISORY COMMITTEE HOLDS INAUGURAL MEETINGCastries, May 28, 2026 - Saint Lucia’s newly established National Tripartite Advisory Committee officially convened its inaugural meeting on May 18, 2026, marking another important step in strengthening social dialogue and inclusive labour consultation within the country.The Committee, which is chaired by Labour Minister Hon. Emma Hippolyte, was formally launched by the Government of Saint Lucia on April 29, 2026, alongside the ratification of International Labour Organization Convention 144 on Tripartite Consultation. Speaking following the inaugural meeting, Permanent Secretary in the Department of Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, Shelia Imbert, explained that the Committee is intended to promote greater consultation, consensus-building and cooperation in addressing labour-related matters on a national level, before advancing Saint Lucia’s position internationally. “The Committee is a formal way of the Government promoting social dialogue. By tripartite, we mean representatives of employers, workers and Government coming together to ensure that matters related to labour are addressed in an inclusive and consultative manner,” Imbert noted.During the inaugural meeting, members reviewed the Committee’s terms of reference, discussed its mandate and objectives, and agreed on operational procedures moving forward. The Committee also agreed to meet every other month as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.Officials say the intention is for the Committee to serve as a platform where labour-related issues can be discussed openly, constructively and holistically, while seeking broad consensus on matters affecting workers, employers and national development.The National Tripartite Advisory Committee comprises representatives from Government, organized labour and employers.Government representatives include: Hon. Emma Hippolyte (Chairperson); Permanent Secretary - Shelia Imbert; Arthur Compass and Nicolai LansiquotWorkers’ representatives include: Julian Monrose; Lisa Goodman and Doreen Obodoechina.Employer representatives include: Goretti Paul; Amy Henry-Demille and Vernesa Joseph-St. Clair.During the meeting, Mr. Julian Monrose and Ms. Goretti Paul were elected as Vice Chairpersons of the Committee.The Department of Labour views the establishment of the National Tripartite Advisory Committee as reflecting Saint Lucia’s continued commitment to participatory governance, industrial harmony and meaningful stakeholder engagement in labour and social development matters. -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E:al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARY Tel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

2 weeks ago

MINISTRY OF EQUITY CELEBRATES 104TH BIRTHDAY OF PHILOMENE “NOAMIE” LOUISYCastries, May 26, 2026 - The Division of Older Persons within the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons has joined family members, friends and the wider Babonneau community in celebrating the remarkable 104th birthday of Philomene “Noamie” Louisy, affectionately known as “Know-me.”Mrs. Louisy, who celebrated her birthday on May 1, 2026, was born in the community of Micoud in 1922 before relocating at the age of seven to Babonneau, which would become her lifelong home and the foundation of her enduring legacy.A proud mother, farmer and market vendor, Mrs. Louisy became widely respected throughout her community for her industrious spirit, determination and independence. During her younger years, she earned distinction as one of the first women in her community to drive a manual vehicle, an achievement regarded as groundbreaking at the time.Family members and friends note that Mrs. Louisy’s life story reflects resilience, hard work, faith and devotion to loved ones and community, qualities which continue to inspire younger generations.A woman deeply rooted in her Christian faith, Mrs. Louisy has remained a longstanding and committed member of the Church of God (Seventh Day), where she dedicated much of her life to service and spiritual growth.As she reflects on her extraordinary longevity, Mrs. Louisy attributes her long life to the grace of God, the discipline and hard work of her youth, and the love and care she continues to receive from her children, grandchildren and loved ones.The Division of Older Persons has extended warm congratulations and best wishes to Mrs. Louisy as she celebrates this exceptional milestone, while recognizing the invaluable contributions senior citizens continue to make to families, communities and national life in Saint Lucia. END ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

3 weeks ago

Minister with responsibility for Gender Hon. Emma Hippolyte has denounced the violent death of the 24 year old woman, Castries, May 22, 2026 - The Minister of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, Hon. Emma Hippolyte, denounces the senseless act of violence which has claimed the life of a young woman, mother and youth activist, Joy St. Omer and extends condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and coworkers. The Ministry, through its various agencies have reached out to the family of the deceased providing the necessary support services to the adults and children directly affected. Given the Ministry’s broad mandate, various units are engaged in dialogue with other stakeholders in the social, health, policing and justice sectors as the details of the incident and associated interventions are coming to hand. The Government of Saint Lucia reiterates its promise to respect, protect and fulfill each citizen’s right to a life free from violence and calls on all citizens to play their part by reporting, either by calling 999 or anonymously 555, for crime reporting. For intimate partner violence call 202 for guidance, support and shelter. Minister Hippolyte cautions that traumatic situations such as these may trigger fears, insecurities and anxiety and is calling on the general public to consider those most vulnerable at this time and refrain from heightening fear and distrust that can thrust victims into isolation and despair.If you need emotional support, please call 203 or reach out to the Division of Human Services or your nearest mental health clinic for support.The Gender Affairs Minister issued a strong warning to perpetrators of violence that there is nowhere to hide. State institutions, she indicated, are working together through various inter-ministerial coordination mechanisms in crime prevention, gender based violence (GBV) response coordination and justice to crack down on violence in all its forms.Minister Hippolyte urges citizens to work with authorities to ensure that perpetrators of violence are not shielded but are brought to justice and granted the mercy of necessary support services, after justice, to reduce recidivism. -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E:al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

3 weeks ago

WORLD BANK MISSION SUPPORTS MAJOR MODERNIZATION OF SAINT LUCIA’S SOCIAL PROTECTION SYSTEMCastries, May 19, 2027 - The Government of Saint Lucia is moving toward a major transformation in the delivery of social assistance services following a high-level mission by the World Bank, which concluded a series of strategic engagements with key government ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Co-operatives and Consumer Affairs.The two-week mission, which concluded on May 14, 2026 focused on reviewing Saint Lucia’s existing social protection mechanisms and laying the foundation for the development of a modern Social Protection Information System (SPIF) designed to improve efficiency, coordination, accountability, and service delivery across multiple government programmes.Senior Social Protection Specialist with the World Bank, Nancy Banegas, explained that the mission involved extensive collaboration with the Ministry of Equity, the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), the Ministry of Finance, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), and several other agencies.She noted that the review has specifically focused on three major social assistance mechanisms, namely the Public Assistance Programme (PAP), the Koudmen Sent Lisi Programme, and the Shock Response Cash Voucher Programme.“These three programmes have been identified as very important social assistance programmes, and the Government, along with the Ministry of Equity, is looking at how services can be delivered more effectively. This system will transform the way ministries deliver services and communicate with clients. It will not only directly benefit clients, but also strengthen the support services they receive,” noted Banegas.The proposed Social Protection Information System will create a centralized and integrated platform where processes from the various programmes converge, fundamentally transforming how services are delivered and how government agencies engage with beneficiaries.According to Banegas, the system is expected to modernize several core operational areas, including client intake procedures, registration processes, assessments, improve distribution mechanisms, and payment systems, while simultaneously improving workflow efficiency for frontline social workers and ministry personnel.Director of Social Transformation within the Ministry of Equity, Tanzia Toussaint, described the mission as a pivotal exercise in strengthening Saint Lucia’s social protection architecture and enhancing evidence-based decision making."This means bringing together all stakeholders, particularly from within our Ministry, including Welfare, Human Services, Social Transformation and Community Development, all of which play a direct role in gathering and managing critical information. We recognize that the flow of information and the capturing of relevant data from the units will improve considerably over time. The objective is to establish a system that reflects, unit by unit, the work being undertaken and the specific information that must be captured. Information is power, and without it, we cannot effectively drive the social protection agenda forward,” Toussaint stated.The software for the Social Protection Information System is expected to be developed and operational by the first quarter of 2027.The Ministry of Equity has welcomed the collaboration as a significant step toward building a more integrated, efficient, and people-centered social protection framework capable of better serving vulnerable individuals and families throughout Saint Lucia. -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Information Assistant, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E:al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

4 weeks ago

PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (PAP) CLIENT NOTICE REGARDING PAYMENT DELAYSMay 17, 2026, Castries – The Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons wishes to inform clients of the Public Assistance Program (PAP), who receive cash payments through sub-collectors, that there is a delay in the disbursement of payments due to unforeseen administrative matters.The Department wishes to assure affected clients that efforts are currently underway to resolve the matter as quickly as possible and all outstanding payments will be brought fully up to date by the end of June 2026.Please note that this delay affects only PAP clients receiving payments via sub-collectors.The Department sincerely regrets any inconvenience caused and thanks clients for their patience, understanding and continued cooperation during this period.For further information, please contact the Department of Equity, Social Justice, Gender and Older Persons at telephone numbers 468-5103/5108 (Castries) or 454-6478 (Vieux Fort). -END-Contacts:Al Lubin, Information Assistant, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5107, E:al.lubin@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

1 month ago

Build Back Equal Initiative Drives Policy Reform and Economic Resilience in Saint LuciaCastries, May 11, 2026 - Efforts to strengthen economic resilience, improve social protection systems, and expand opportunities for women and vulnerable groups in Saint Lucia are receiving renewed momentum through the Build Back Equal Project, a multi-sector initiative aimed at advancing gender equality, reducing poverty risks, and strengthening institutional support mechanisms across the island.The project continues to support legislative reform, policy development, gender-based violence prevention and response, and the expansion of economic opportunities for women through improved technical capacity and market access.These priorities were reinforced during a recent National Project Steering Committee Meeting, which brought together representatives from government agencies, civil society organizations, and development partners to review implementation progress and strengthen collaboration as the project enters its final phase.Project Coordination Analyst for the Build Back Equal Project, Sasha Harris, said the initiative is designed to strengthen long-term economic resilience among vulnerable groups. “The Build Back Equal Project largely speaks to women’s economic empowerment broadly, but looking at it through the lens of comprehensive gender-responsive social protection, gender-based violence prevention and response, and also strengthening women’s technical capacity as well as market access, such that we reduce the risk of vulnerability to poverty and strengthen their economic resilience,” Harris explained.Harris added that the Steering Committee Meeting also focused on advancing acceleration plans, improving stakeholder coordination, and identifying stronger synergies with existing national programmes.Director of Gender Affairs, Janey Joseph, emphasized that sustained partnerships remain critical to ensuring long-term national impact and sustainability. “Much of the gender equality work that we are doing has to be done through partnerships and stakeholder engagement. One of the good things we have noticed from the implementation of Build Back Equal since 2022 is the strengthening of research, the development of policy, and the establishment of institutional mechanisms that previously did not exist. We are also seeing legislative changes and policy development on the horizon,” Joseph stated.Joseph further noted that increased alignment among national agencies and stakeholders is helping to improve coordination and strengthen sustainable social development outcomes across Saint Lucia.Implemented by UN Women in partnership with UNFPA and national stakeholders, the Build Back Equal Project is scheduled to conclude in 2026 and remains a key initiative supporting inclusive development, social resilience, and gender-responsive reform in Saint Lucia. -END-Contacts:Shervroy Marius, Information Assistant, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5146, E: shervroy.marius@govt.lcJohn Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lc Charmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.) PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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Saint Lucia Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment

1 month ago

Government Moves to Modernize Social Service Delivery with Data-Driven and Family-Centred ApproachCastries, May 7, 2026 - The Government of Saint Lucia is undertaking a major transformation in the delivery of social services, shifting toward a more integrated, data-driven, and family-centred model designed to improve outcomes for vulnerable citizens.This was the focus of a key component of the 2026/2027 Budget Debate presentation by Minister for Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer Affairs, Hon. Emma Hippolyte.At the heart of this transformation is a move away from fragmented interventions toward a “wrap-around” system of care, particularly for children and families in need of protection. Rather than relying solely on institutional responses, the Ministry will implement holistic support systems that address the broader home and social environment, ensuring that both children and their families receive the assistance necessary for long-term stability.Minister Hippolyte emphasized that sustainable social outcomes require deeper structural change.“We must move beyond treating symptoms and begin addressing the underlying conditions affecting our families and communities.”A central pillar of the reform agenda is the strengthening of coordination between the Ministry of Equity and the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF). This enhanced collaboration will span the full programme cycle, from planning and implementation to monitoring and evaluation, ensuring more efficient use of resources and greater impact across social, economic, and community development initiatives.The Government is also advancing a more evidence-based approach to social assistance, through the application of the Saint Lucia National Eligibility Test (SLNET). This system will guide the reassessment and recertification of beneficiaries under the Public Assistance Programme (PAP), reducing errors and ensuring that support is directed to those who need it most.In addition, the Government of Saint Lucia will undertake a strategic repositioning of the James Belgrave Micro Enterprise Development Fund (BELfund). Recognizing shifts in the financing landscape, BELfund will be restructured to serve as a disbursement, training, and business support hub, aligning its operations with broader national initiatives such as the MSME Loan-Grant Facility, the Youth Economy, and emerging opportunities within the Silver Economy.These reforms are intended to enhance efficiency, improve service delivery, and ensure that social investment yields measurable and sustainable results. Minister Hippolyte underscored that modernization of systems is essential to meeting the country’s evolving social challenges. “Our responsibility is not only to provide support, but to ensure that the systems delivering that support are responsive, coordinated, and fit for purpose.”This new approach signals a decisive shift in national social policy, one that places equal emphasis on delivery, accountability, and long-term impact, as the Government continues its mission to build a more inclusive and resilient Saint Lucia. - END -Contacts:John Emmanuel, Communications Manager, Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Gender, Older Persons, Labour, Cooperatives and Consumer AffairsT: (758) 468-5131 E: commanager.equity@govt.lcCharmaine Hippolyte Emmanuel (Ph.D.)PERMANENT SECRETARYTel: 468 5108/5125/5194 Email: pssec.equity@govt.lc ... See MoreSee Less

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